Examining the Pros and Cons of Timing Belts and Timing Chains

If you have ever wondered whether a timing belt or a timing chain is better, this is the video for you, as we will examine the pros and cons of both types: the chain can be link or roller type, with the latter generally being more durable, but currently, they are mainly fitted on motorcycles.

The belt can be dry or oil-bathed; the latter is less efficient as parts of the belt risk ending up in the oil. The belt is certainly cheaper in terms of replacement, and the chain is positioned in such a way that more components must be removed.

In terms of durability, the chain should last longer; if maintenance is performed at the right intervals, many manufacturers guarantee it for the engine's life. Regarding external influences, the chain is fully protected, while the belt may suffer from oil leaks, coolant leaks, or the failure of the auxiliary belt.

And which one gives better warning when it is about to fail? The chain tends to alert you with strange noises, while the belt can leave you stranded suddenly. In terms of noise, of course, the belt is much quieter.

A point in favour of the belt: the water pump is also connected to the belt, so if the auxiliary belt breaks at home, you can manage it, which is not the case with the chain, where the auxiliary belt also drives the water pump. At that point, you are stuck.

Let's talk about ease of servicing: timing belt alignment is much easier than that of a chain. But which one delivers more power? Belts now have high performance, but the most powerful engines are all chain-driven.

So we need to understand what we want to do with our vehicle and how we want to use it.